The usage of the bus in no way stops from using the front panel jacks. The connections all go to the normalization on the input side and only one module can send to it so it doesn’t get in the way, it is just there if you want to use it. It is VERY useful in the standard voice configuration. Wi. th the A-185 you get the ability ot patch into and from the bus so it is even more flexible. The A-185 has the buffering needed and provides 2 spare buffered outputs for both the gate and CV. I guess it is all in your style of patching. To me it is just like normalizing but it is normalizing to more than one module.
I just wish more modules were enabled for it’s use. I use it often but don’t expect everyone to use it and if the module is designed like all the ones that do use it, the module will have a header allowing you to not use it if you want to. To me this is the modular ethos. To mre this is ADDING a feature and flexibility that is the hallmark of the modular system.
-James
I totally disagree on the use of the busses. I never use them, I find the idea not fitting in a modular system.
My thought behind this:
It's a modular, every signal should be visible and easily re-patchable on the front.
/my 2 kroner